Property: Expert warns of 'turbulent' housing market as more Britons look to move home

The coronavirus lockdown has caused Britons to spend more time in their homes than ever before. Being indoors will have forced homeowners to figure out exactly what they want from their property.

Over the last few months, some homeowners will have realised their house does not have everything in it that they need.

As lockdown restrictions start to ease, many will be looking for homes with gardens and home offices.

The property market has been uncertain throughout the pandemic.

However, house prices and demand soared in July which could have been pushed by the stamp duty freezes introduced last month.

READ MORE: Garden feature could knock home value by £23,000

The price freeze applies to the first £500,000 of all property sales in England and Northern Ireland until March 31, 2021.

Should you move property?

A quarter of all Britons think moving is a good idea, according to a survey carried out by garden furniture retailer Moda Furnishings.

The new research found that 25 percent of homeowners are considering moving or have already taken steps to do so.

The findings showed that 49 percent of Britons would also like a home with more space.

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While the market is uncertain, it is showing signs of recovering, according to the latest statistics from the UK Residential Market Survey (RICS).

There has also been an increase in the number of potential buyers looking and new homes being listed, Ross Counsell, chartered surveyor and director at regulated property buyers Good Move commented.

He explained: “Yesterday’s RICS statistics reveal the UK housing market gained further momentum last month which showcases the ongoing recovery – something we’re all happy to hear after a turbulent few months.

“We have seen an increase in new buyer queries, as well as a rise in new listings and sales.

“The measures employed by the government such as the Stamp Duty holiday have positively impacted this spike.”

While the market is constantly changing, the research could be good news for those hoping to move.

Ross continued: “These latest statistics should hopefully help reassure buyers and sellers in the UK that the property market is starting to return to ‘normal’.”

However, the government has announced the UK has entered a recession for the first time in 11 years.

The expert warned, because of this, Britons should still think carefully before making the decision to move.

“We must not forget that we are now in a recession, therefore we advise buyers who are looking to purchase a home during the recession to thoroughly check out the property before they commit,” he added.

“Ask important questions such as how much work the property may need to ensure they’re protecting their finances and getting the best possible deal.

“Buyers must not get swept away in a low house price or jump at the first-rate a mortgage lender offers. Purchasing a home during this time is a big decision and one that needs to be thought about carefully.”

source: express.co.uk